5 Top  destination in Europe where to spend your summer holiday

I am sure that some of you haven’t planned their summer vacation because either to busy at work or for the many choices on the web and difficulty on picking one.

Here  5 top destinations in Europe where to go for your summer vacation, out of the radar hence less expensive.

 

 

History, food, and beaches of Sicily

Some of you still link Sicily to unfortunate episode related to the 60′, when this island was parallel to a sad illegal organization. Many of you don’t know that today Sicily is one of the safest places in Italy, where you can enjoy much more than just beaches.

If you are a history and philosophy lover, if you are into folklore and food, if you are into wine culture and agronomy and if you are into archaeology, Sicily is the key! From the ancient ruins of Syracuse to the colored Ballarò street market of Palermo and the pretty old town in Catania. And much more on the list.

 

On top of this, Sicily is a beautiful island with stunning beaches for everyone taste: from a long sandy path on the north coast to breathtaking rocky East coast and unknown little islands like the Eolie Archipelago.

To make it better, Sicily is one of the cheapest places in Italy as well: expect that for few locations that might be a little pricey like Taormina or the island of Panarea, you can find many different cheaper option.

How to get there 

By land: once you are in Calabria in the town of Villa San Giovanni, get on the Caronte Ferry for a 30 minutes trip.

By flight: many low-cost companies are now landing in the 3 major airports Palermo- Catania- Comiso, such Ryanair and Easyjet

 

 

 

 

Idyllic beaches and desert in Fuerteventura

 

Fuerteventura, called like this because of the wind blowing thanks to its Ocean position, is the 2nd largest island of Canary Islands, Spain.

Getting a good deal buying the flight with few months in advance, you can then enjoy many activities on the island for a little money.

Rent a car and get a nice house for yourself on Airbnb and explore the beauty of this island. Get to know the amazing crystal water beaches like Playa de Sotaventod e Jandia and Costa Calma. For the sporty ones, you can Kitesurf at El Cotillo (if you venture there with a local, you will lucky to reach untouched beaches, like Playa del Aguila).

Another island’s highlight are “Dunes of Corralejo”: a unique beauty of a desert in the Oasis of civilization, where you can enjoy the sea view walking on the tiny sand.

 

For the nightlife: hit the road of Corralejo and do not miss to drink up a fresh Mojitos at Banana bar and get some moves later on at Waikiki dance club.

If you have time and you look for an paradisaical natural heaven: get a boat that will take you to the neighborhood little island of Lanzarote.

How to get there :

The best way is to grab a low-cost flight by  Vueling or check for a deal on Skyscanner

 

 

 

Slainte in Dublin

 

Shall I explain to you first what “Slainte” means: in the Gaelic language means cheers. Of course, you must have at least one Slainte over a smooth Guinness once you are in Dublin.

It might not be the cheapest option ever in Europe, but definitely with a good Airbnb/hostel/guesthouse research and avoiding the big restaurant, Dublin can still visit without wash off your bank account.

Being definitely one of my favorite city in Europe, Dublin has a lot to offer for a city break. Have a stroll at East Pier, Dún Laoghaire and then move to Dollymount Strand to enjoy 5 km stretch of sand. Why not enjoy a picnic on a sunny day at Phoenix Park, Europe’s largest walled city park or spend few hours at National Botanic Gardens.

 

In addition you cannot miss the Temple bar sharing a beer with local people. The real secret that makes Dublin so beautiful.. is its people!

If you are into beer, but even if you are just curious I highly recommend a visit to the Guinness store: and eventually relax drink up a pint on top of the rooftop Gravity Bar.

How to get there :

By flight with Ryanair

 

 

Visit Toulouse: The Pink city of France

The capital of the capital of France’s southern Occitanie region, Toulouse is called the Pink city thanks to terra-cotta bricks used in many of its building.

This city is really fascinating for the major artist walking around the streets and hanging by the Garonne river.

Best way to visit Toulouse is by bike: rent one city bike at of the many stations of Velo Toulouse for only 1.20 euro per day and bike around.

Bike or walk over the Canal du Midi maybe stops reading your book there. Reach the city hall the “Capitole ” and stop starring at its beautiful architecture. Enjoy a French picnic by the river Garonne, and why not..a glass or 2 of French wine.

 

From Cité de l’espace to Pont Neuf, from Jardin des Plantes to Notre-Dame de la Daurade and all its Museums, Toulouse will surprise your eyes and pleasure.

Do you know that you can enjoy a nice Oyster happy hour and a battle of wine for less than 25 euro???

How to get there:

Flight with Ryanair

By land, hiring a car if you are already in France

 

 

 

Live a fairy-tale story in Sinaia, Romania

Sinaia is a town in central Romania’s Bucegi Mountains, in the very center of the country and few km away from Brasov.

With its breathtaking mountain scenery and the house of the Peles Castle residence of the kings of Romania, Sinaia will make you live a real fairy tale story. Re-live the Neo-Renaissance magic visiting the palace, feeling like a royal.

 

Not to miss a visit to Sinaia’s Monastery situated in the Prahova Valley and not too far, at the border within Transylvania and Wallachia, you can visit Bran Castle mostly known as Dracula Castle. Furthermore, have some pleasant time in Brasov , capital of Transylvania, and step back in time in its beautiful medieval landscape.

How to get there :

The easiest way is to fly to Bucharest,well connected with low-cost flights with many European gateways, then hire a car.

 

 

For more information on the above destinations, do not hesitate to contact me : guided tours, accommodations, tips, local food, restaurant, market and events.

Mari